The annual general assembly of Makivik ended after four days of discussions with members encouraged by Makivik’s progress in its subsidiaries and political developments.
The subsidiaries of Makivik; First Air, Air Inuit, Halutik Enterprises, Nunavik Creations; and joint ventures Pan Arctic Inuit Logistics (PAIL), Cruise North Expeditions Inc, Unaaq Fisheries Inc, and Nunavut Eastern Arctic Shipping (NEAS) presented satifactory reports to the assembly.
Social issues such as Justice, and the Dog Slaughter issue were discussed and it is expected that the Quebec government will begin an independent inquiry on the killing of Inuit sled dogs. The high cost of living and taxes were often referred to in discussions related to the economy in Nunavik, and that solutions must be found to reduce the cost of living. Most important was on the subject of beluga, the harvesting of which has become restricted along the Nunavik coasts. It was felt that regulations being enforced do not take Inuit traditional knowledge into account. Inuit have inhabited Nunavik since thousands of years, and it is time for scientists to integrate Inuit traditional knowledge on decisions being made concerning the harvest of beluga in Nunavik.
This year the Vice-president, Economic Development’s position was up for election and Adamie Alaku of Salluit, the incumbent; and Michael Gordon of Kuujjuaq ran for this executive position. Michael Gordon was elected as the new Vice-president by 55% of Nunavik voters. 39% of eligible voters came to make their decision on Friday March 30.
The financial statements of Makivik are approved during the early part of the assembly. This year the beneficiaries’ equity is at $216,117,099 with retained earnings of $91,907,349. Earnings have seen an increase compared to last year due to excellent results from the subsidiary companies. Funds that are provided through the Sanarrutik Agreement also allowed regional organizations such as Avataq Cultural Institute, Taqramiut Nipingat Inc, Saputiit Inuit Youth Association; the Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping Association; and the Nunavik Landholding Corporation Association to receive over $3 million dollars in total.
Makivik Corporation is the Inuit owned economic development company created following the signing of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement in 1975. Its mandate includes political representation of the 9,800 Inuit of Nunavik, the administration of the funds stemming from the Agreement. Makivik owns subsidiary companies such as Air Inuit, First Air, Nunavik Creations, Halutik Enterprises, and jointly owned Cruise North, and jointly owns with other Inuit regional corporations Pan Arctic Inuit Logistics (PAIL) and Unaaq Fisheries.
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Lisa Koperqualuk Communications Officer Makivik Corporation koperqualuk@makivik.org 514-386-0669
